Rishab Rikhiram Sharma: Bridging Tradition and Modernity with the Sitar
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma is a distinguished sitarist, music producer, and mental health advocate, celebrated for his innovative fusion of classical Indian music with contemporary genres. Born into the illustrious Rikhi Ram family of luthiers in Delhi, Rishab's musical journey commenced at the age of ten under the guidance of his father, Sanjay Sharma, a master luthier. His prodigious talent was further honed as the youngest and last disciple of the legendary sitar maestro, Pandit Ravi Shankar.
Rishab's educational pursuits led him to New York City, where he earned dual degrees in Music Production and Economics from the City University of New York, Queens College Campus. This academic foundation enabled him to seamlessly blend traditional sitar techniques with modern musical elements, captivating audiences worldwide. His dynamic performances have graced prestigious venues, including a historic solo at the White House during a Diwali event hosted by President Biden, and a monumental performance at the NRG Stadium in Houston, Texas, before an audience exceeding 60,000.
Beyond his musical endeavors, Rishab is a passionate advocate for mental health. In 2020, he founded the "Sitar For Mental Health" initiative, aiming to promote mental wellness through music therapy. This program offers complimentary music therapy sessions and collaborates with mental health professionals to develop holistic wellness approaches.
Rishab's commitment to his craft and advocacy has garnered him a substantial following on platforms like Instagram and Clubhouse, where he engages audiences with performances and discussions on music and mental health. His journey exemplifies a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation, inspiring a new generation of musicians and mental health advocates.
For a deeper insight into Rishab's journey and his impact on the music world, you might find the following interview enlightening:
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma's father backround-
Rishab Rikhiram Sharma's father, Sanjay Sharma, is a distinguished master luthier and the current head of the Rikhi Ram Musical Instrument Company. This esteemed family business, established by Rishab's grandfather, Rikhi Ram Sharma, has been crafting high-quality Indian musical instruments for decades and is renowned worldwide.
Sanjay Sharma has dedicated his life to the art of instrument making, upholding and advancing the family's legacy. His expertise and craftsmanship have earned him recognition among musicians globally. Beyond his luthier skills, Sanjay Sharma played a pivotal role in Rishab's musical journey, serving as his first guru and introducing him to the sitar at the age of ten. Under his father's guidance, Rishab developed a deep respect for the instrument and honed his foundational skills, which later flourished under the mentorship of sitar maestro Pandit Ravi Shankar.
source - TELEGRAPH INDIA
The Rikhi Ram Musical Instrument Company has a storied history, with its instruments being favored by numerous legendary musicians, including George Harrison of The Beatles and Pandit Ravi Shankar. Sanjay Sharma's commitment to quality and tradition has ensured that the company remains a cornerstone in the world of Indian classical music.
In addition to his craftsmanship, Sanjay Sharma has been supportive of Rishab's initiatives, such as the "Sitar for Mental Health" project, which aims to promote mental wellness through music therapy. His involvement underscores a family tradition not only of musical excellence but also of using music as a means to foster well-being and community.
Through his dual roles as a master luthier and mentor, Sanjay Sharma has significantly influenced both the preservation of traditional Indian instrument craftsmanship and the nurturing of new talent in the classical music scene.